LOCATIONS

Ethiopia

East Africa

Ethiopia is located in East Africa and has the second-largest population among all African countries. Approximately 78% of Ethiopians struggle to survive on an income of less than $2 per day. The nation has faced challenges such as civil wars, famine, drought, and the spread of diseases like leprosy. Ethiopia’s widespread poverty has resulted in nationwide hunger, malnutrition, and preventable diseases, all of which account for at least 60% of the country’s health problems. Despite facing significant challenges, Ethiopia possesses a rich culture and a long history worth celebrating.

Korah is a small village located in the southwestern part of Addis Ababa and was once known as a community for lepers. It is now known as the site of the city’s trash dump. Many villagers rely on scavenging through the waste in search of food for their families. They face significant struggles as they compete with crows and dogs for scraps and have no access to proper medical treatment. Due to the economic necessity of providing for their families, most children are needed to contribute to the family’s income by searching for items in the trash dump and, therefore, do not go to school. Without education, many children are vulnerable to abuse, addiction, and a life of poverty. In March 2017, there was a devastating landslide at the trash dump in Korah, resulting in the loss of more than 150 lives. The landslide left many children orphaned and even more vulnerable than before. The aftermath of the landslide is still evident today, though, despite their hardships, the people of Korah exhibit unwavering strength and resilience in the face of adversity.